0/09/2003 
Letter to The Editor
Kerry Collins - Executive Director, Lafayette Parish Bayou Vermilion District
I am writing in response to Patrick Briney’s letter in the October 7, 2003 issue of the Advertiser concerning the Lafayette Parish Bayou Vermilion District’s Bond Proposition on the November 15th ballot.
First, the bond proposition, if approved, would NOT result in an increase in the taxes currently being paid by Lafayette Parish citizens.
Second, the funds generated from the sale of bonds will go toward capital projects that will promote fisheries, preserve wetlands and other natural habitats, improve the parks and boat landings, provide additional access to and from the river, promote natural history education and to keep the river free from obstructions that could lead to flooding. A small percent of the bond would go to the purchase of equipment for river clean up.
Mr. Briney is correct in saying that the Bayou Vermilion District does not need additional operating funds for river clean up. We are currently able to manage the trash in the river, keeping it to a minimum. However, the District is ready to do more than just pick up trash.
The District is now ready to move on to the next phase in our long range plan to make the river safe for all types of recreation, to reduce sediment, to improve fishing and fish habitats, to beautify this wonderful asset with which the citizens of Lafayette have been blessed.
The District’s goals are to make the river into something promoters of economic development can point to as one of the many things that make the quality of life in Lafayette superior to other places. We wish to make the Vermilion something the people of Lafayette and there children can use and enjoy. Something they can be proud to show visitors.
Cleaning up the trash in the river is only the first step. The bond proposition is the next step. It is the framework for achieving the long-range goals of making the Bayou Vermilion a part of Lafayette’s life once again.
